A very well-written story combined with an outstanding acting = a drama with never-ending surprises.
If you read the synopsis here or on Netflix and think that “Ah, it’s just another police drama.” And if you haven’t got hooked with the first four episodes because you think that there’s nothing intriguing with the supernatural stuff in the story, my advice to you is PLEASE DO NOT GIVE UP YET, PLEASE GIVE IT A TRY TO A COUPLE MORE EPISODES. Because everything just CAME TO LIFE in the latter part of the story. It turns to be a COMPLETELY DIFFERENT DRAMA in a very positive way!My experience of watching J-drama is shallow, but I’m sure this is the first time I’ve watched a drama with this kind of storytelling. They promoted it as an ordinary case-solving, police-buddy story before totally turned around the table in the middle of drama. It just got better and better every episode, showed you never-ending surprises, and concluded with AN EPIC FINALE. I totally didn’t expect that this is what “Zenketsu” drama would be about after watching the first episode.
I’ve watched some of the writer’s project before and I think he’s someone who are capable to create a story that keeps you on the edge of your seat, but unfortunately, I found that some of them had unsatisfactory endings, with missing connections in the mystery or unconvincing motives behind the main case. But I’m confident to say that it’s different with Zenketsu. He really delivered a very convincing script for such an insane story. The writer and research team of this drama really did an excellent job to build the concept and ideas, then connecting the dots to define the characters and drive the story.
Also, I think Zenketsu is a type of story that can easily feel unserious and cheap if the characters and the visuals aren’t well-executed. So above all, thanks to the actors’ incredible performances and the production team, they turned this out-of-this-world story into something truly believable. Fujiwara Tatsuya as the lead; Hirose Alice, Kohinata Fumiyo, Fukumoto Riko, Sakoda Takaya, Yusuke Santamaria, Narumi Riko, Komiya Rio, and Kakizawa Hayato who play the major characters; all the supporting and guest casts, even the extras too: ALL OF THEM ARE AMAZING. The production team also did their job really well considering the tight budget of a TV production.
Overall, what an amazing journey for me watching this drama from the beginning until the end. Zenketsu gave me a full of rollercoaster emotions. I laughed, shed tears, held my breath, bit my nails while watching the story unfold. It has everything from myths & folklores to modern social issues, all packed in a mysterious storyline that is both thrilling and endearing. Great world-building, a truly well-executed story and very well-acted characters. I really hope there’ll be sequels! Go watch this drama guys, it’s on Netflix with multiple subs. This show is too great to be missed out.
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Those Foolish Humans
This was an incredible series. It did a good job grabbing the view’s attention in the beginning, but started off a little rocky. However, this is one series that gets better after each episode. The script is interesting from the start, but it felt like something was missing. This changes by the 5th episode and everything starts to make sense. Some of the characters were unlikable at first, but the script did a great job explaining the reasoning behind their actions. There are also a lot of twists and turns that keep you guessing what is going to happen next. Although there is a slight romance element with some of the characters, it did not overpower the main storyline. The cast was excellent and did a great job with their characters. This also did a great job with the cinematography, special effects, and make-up.Random Note:
There is a possible hint of a second season because the last two scenes can be interpreted as a cliffhanger. If this is the case, I can’t wait to watch it.
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This review may contain spoilers
good drama, give it a try!
Wow, the last episode gave me chills, and I almost cried. This drama was full of unexpected moments, and I really enjoyed it—great story and acting! Oh, and I heard there’s going to be a second season? Amazing!I give this a 8,5/10. I was skeptical at first—I mean, watching it week after week, the plot felt a bit all over the place lol. But once they introduced the gods and the whole mystery around Hiruko, it just kept getting more and more fascinating each week. Loved it!
I’d highly recommend this drama to anyone who loves being kept on the edge of their seat. It’s perfect for those who enjoy unexpected twists, surprising revelations, and a storyline that keeps you guessing until the very end. Bonus point for the touching moments(ep10…)
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Clumsy at Best
I pushed through two episodes of this one, so it's possible there might be, however unlikely, something redeeming showing up later. The awkward directing, acting, script, and ersatz music at times don't bode well and can't be fixed by some later plot twist because they are the problem.The marketing spin and basic elements promise something interesting, but the execution is amateurish and clumsy.
When the lead character was introduced with three different angled shots I got a really bad feeling that the director is to put it politely, full of himself, and most all that followed confirmed that.
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While I thought this is an ordinary buddy drama...
"Zenketsu" isn't flawless, with some plot points and scenes deserving better execution. However, its captivating narrative shines when the characters' true selves are revealed. Initially typical, this buddy detective drama escalates into an intense, unique thrill ride, making it irresistibly binge-worthy.Well-crafted characters complement the engaging storyline. Impressive technical aspects, including soothing color grading and dynamic camera movements, elevate the viewing experience.
The cliffhanger ending teases potential for Season 2, which I eagerly anticipated!
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